To celebrate our 20th Anniversary in 2023, we’re highlighting 20 stories that have helped shape StoryStudio over the years. Each month of 2023, we’ll be featuring one or two members of our community as they share their story. Whether they came from the very first class that Jill started in 2003 when StoryStudio was just a few folding chairs and a dream, or they’re from the most recent cohort of Novel in a Year students, on their way to publishing a book; these members make StoryStudio what it is.
Below is Jeremy’s story.
It’s wild to think back to the deep dark days of the pandemic. Remember when we were all stuck inside bleaching our groceries and the most thrilling part of our day was the move from our fancy daytime sweats to our cute nighttime sweats? What a time that was! How any of us made it through with our dreams and creativity intact is a miracle. I don’t know how you did it, but I know for certain I was able to hold onto hope and stay focused because of Megan Stielstra and her Essay Collection in a Year class.
With every “write that down” Megan helped our cohort (if even for a couple hours) turn down the unpredictable and wacky world outside and get to work. I couldn’t wait to tune into Zoom for the magic of her inspiring and wise words each month. That class was a balm for the chaos. It kept me focused, calm, and hopeful. Megan pushed us to consistently show up to the page, to continue telling our stories, and to keep going. She helped me turn my big blob of a book idea into a real and tangible project that continues to this day.
In the darkest time, Megan encouraged me to believe, and she made my book feel achievable. I will always be grateful to Megan, and StoryStudio for that time, that lifesaving class, and for the beautiful writing community they foster.
In the darkest time, Megan encouraged me to believe, and she made my book feel achievable. I will always be grateful to Megan, and StoryStudio for that time, that lifesaving class, and for the beautiful writing community they foster.
I’m always talking about StoryStudio Chicago and bragging about how amazing it is. It’s gotten to the point where I sound like that old 80s commercial for Hair Club for Men.
I’m Jeremy Owens, president of the StoryStudio Fan Club. If you’re on the hunt for opportunities to work with and learn from top-notch writers you admire, if you’re searching for an excellent writing community that comes with incredible programs you don’t want to miss, if you’re craving the inspiration to help you get serious about your work and keep you coming back to the page again and again without the stress of an MFA and its hefty price tag — then StoryStudio Chicago is the place for you.
…and by the way, not only am I the president of the StoryStudio Fan Club, I’m also a client.